Shichon Full Grown: A Comprehensive Guide to Ownership

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Posted Oct 23, 2024

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As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to understand what to expect from your Shichon when it reaches full growth. On average, a Shichon full grown can weigh between 16 and 22 pounds.

Shichons are known for their small size, but they still require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as short walks and playtime.

Their coat requires regular grooming, with daily brushing and occasional trimming to prevent matting. Shichons are also prone to shedding, so be prepared for some extra cleaning.

Despite their small size, Shichons are intelligent and active dogs that require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

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What is a Shichon

The Shichon, also known as a Zuchon or Teddy Bear dog, is a cross between an Oriental Shih Tzu and a Mediterranean Bichon Frise.

This hybrid breed is relatively new, emerging in popularity in the 1990s, but its popularity is growing quickly.

Credit: youtube.com, Shichon Facts - Puppies and Full Grown Dogs

The Shichon typically reaches an average height of 9-12 inches from the shoulder and weighs between 8-25 pounds.

Their coat is often curly or wavy, soft, and low-shedding, requiring regular grooming to prevent matting.

Shichons are known for their endearing face, large expressive eyes, and soft teddy-bear coat, making them a beloved companion.

Their temperament is affectionate, friendly, outgoing, playful, and adaptable, making them suitable for families with children, singles, and seniors.

Shichons are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for those with allergy problems.

Here are some key characteristics of the Shichon breed:

The Shichon is a loyal and devoted companion, but they do require attention and socialization to thrive.

Appearance and Size

Shichons are small dogs that typically weigh between 9 and 15 pounds.

Their height can range from 9 to 12 inches, making them slightly smaller than a bichon frise but slightly larger than a shih tzu.

As a mixed breed, shichon puppies can look quite different, even within the same litter, with some inheriting the curly coat of a bichon frise and others sporting the silky coat of a shih tzu.

Credit: youtube.com, Bichon Frise Shih Tzu Mix (Shichon) : Should you get this Cross Breed? Shichon Facts, Size and Info

Some shichons may have a solid coat in various shades of buff, apricot, and cream, while others display a mix of three different colors.

Their coats can come in a wide range of colors, including brown, red, gold, cream, black, white, silver, and more.

Shichons are known for their low-shedding, teddy-bear fur, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

They often have brown or black button eyes and a medium-length tail.

Here are the typical characteristics of a shichon's size and appearance:

Overall, shichons are small, adorable dogs with a wide range of coat colors and types, making each one unique and special.

Temperament and Personality

Shichons are diplomatic little dogs that get along well with most other pets, including cats and fellow dogs, as long as they're socialized with them from a young age. They form close bonds with their family and love the energy children bring to each day.

Credit: youtube.com, Shichon Dog Breed: 10 Amazing Facts You Must Know

Shichons are intelligent dogs, bred from two brainiac parent breeds, and they're eager to please their people. This makes them a standout student when it comes to training.

As a happy mix of playful and quiet, shichons have more than enough energy for a walk around the block or a game of fetch before they settle on your lap for a siesta. Their adaptability makes them a suitable companion for all household types, from tiny apartments to large houses with fenced-in yards.

Shichons are not known for being the most intelligent dog breed, but they make up for it in friendliness and affection. They're determined to please their family members, which makes them relatively easy to train.

Temperament & Intelligence

Shichons are adoring companions that thrive on human interaction. They're a happy mix of playful and quiet, making them suitable for all household types.

Their adaptability is one of their greatest strengths, allowing them to adjust to tiny apartments or large houses with fenced-in yards. With a determination to please their family members, they're relatively easy to train.

Credit: youtube.com, What's the difference between Temperament and Personality? (2)

Shichons are not known for being the most intelligent dog breed, but they make up for it with their friendliness and affection. They're people-driven and sociable, forming close bonds with their family.

As a mixed breed, shichons can look different from one another, but their cute combinations are endless. They can inherit curly coats, silky coats, or a mix of both, coming in a range of colors including brown, red, gold, cream, black, white, silver, and more.

Shichons are diplomatic little dogs that get along well with most other pets, including cats and fellow dogs, as long as they've been socialized with them from a young age. They're intelligent and eager to please, making them standout students when it comes to training.

Their moderate energy level means they need daily walks and playtime, but it's not excessive, taking up only about an hour of your time each day. They're a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance breed in terms of exercise.

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Do they bark?

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Shichons are not excessive barkers, which makes them a great fit for apartment living, even with noise restrictions.

Like most dogs, shichons will bark when the doorbell rings or when a stranger walks up the driveway.

You can train your shichon not to bark, and it's even more effective if you start when they're a puppy.

Living Needs

Living with a full-grown Shichon is a wonderful experience. They're social butterflies and thrive on quality time with their humans.

These dogs love to spend time with their family, whether it's playing games, training, or just lounging on the couch. They're natural companions and will keep your lap warm during those work-from-home Zoom calls.

Shichons do best with families who are home quite a bit, as they can get anxious if left alone for extended periods. However, they're also an ideal pet for older adults due to their relatively low exercise needs.

Their small size and low exercise needs make them a great fit for apartment living, but they'll also enjoy romping around in a fenced backyard. Just be sure to provide plenty of breaks and shade to prevent heat stroke.

Credit: youtube.com, Owning a Bichon Shih Tzu Mix (Shichon)

Here are some key living needs to consider:

Shichons are generally happy to adapt to their owner's lifestyle, but they do need regular grooming and veterinary check-ups to stay healthy.

Health and Conditions

The shichon is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to some health issues. They can live for 12-16 years, which is a long lifespan for a small breed dog.

Hip dysplasia is a common issue in shichons, as it is in their parent breeds, the bichon frise and shih tzu. This condition can cause pain, mobility issues, and osteoarthritis if left untreated.

Shichons can also be susceptible to patellar luxation, a slipped kneecap, and umbilical hernias. Eye health problems like cataracts can also occur.

Bichon frises, one of the parent breeds, can be prone to hypothyroidism and von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder. However, mixed-breed dogs like shichons are less likely to inherit genetic disorders than their purebred parents.

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To ensure you're bringing home a healthy shichon, research the breeder thoroughly. Look out for red flags like breeders who ship puppies, kennels that produce multiple breeds, and difficulty finding contact information.

Here are some common health issues that can affect shichons:

Training and Behavior

The shichon's intelligence makes them relatively easy to train, and they enjoy spending time with their owners, so positive reinforcement techniques work well.

They can learn impressive tricks and even enjoy dog sports like agility, but they may struggle with housetraining, so be patient and continually reward them for doing their business outdoors.

Crate training can be helpful, and hiring a trainer isn't necessary, but attending a training class can help with socialization and obedience in new or distracting environments.

The shichon requires daily grooming and potentially regular trims, and regular bathing can help with allergies, but be careful not to over-bathe, as this can dry out their skin.

Credit: youtube.com, 10 Tricks My Shichon Teddy Bear Can Do

They are prone to being a little smelly, so regular bathing might be necessary to keep them clean and hug-able.

The early lessons of training can be the hardest, especially with potty training, due to their small bladder, so take things slowly and consider introducing crate training.

Positive reinforcement methods can turn your shichon into a trick-performing superstar, and they are well-suited for obedience training, learning tricks, and even agility and obstacle courses.

Regular dental care and nail trimming are also essential to keep your shichon in optimal health.

Family and Compatibility

The Shichon is a wonderful breed for families, but it's essential to consider their needs and limitations. They are generally good with kids, but it's crucial to teach children how to play safely with them due to their small size.

Shichons are affectionate and gentle, making them a great fit for families with children. They love to play and will enjoy running around with kids.

Credit: youtube.com, 3 months journey with our Zuchon / Shichon puppy. Best birthday gift received.

However, their small size means they can be injured more easily, so it's vital to supervise interactions between children and the Shichon.

If you're a new dog owner, a Shichon can be a great choice, but be prepared for some frustration with house training. They are loving, playful, and good with kids, but they require patience and consistency.

To ensure a smooth housebreaking process, reward your Shichon every time they potty outside and avoid punishing them for accidents indoors.

Here are some key points to consider when deciding if a Shichon is right for your family:

  • Shichons are good with kids, but they need to be taught how to play safely.
  • They require regular grooming, including trimming their coat and brushing their teeth daily.
  • Shichons are prone to separation anxiety and shouldn't be left alone for too long.
  • They need regular exercise, but it's not strenuous, making them suitable for families with smaller living spaces.

Overall, the Shichon is a loving and adaptable breed that can thrive in a family environment with proper care and attention.

Care and Essentials

Daily teeth brushing is a must for Shichons to prevent periodontal disease and tooth decay.

Their ears should be checked regularly for infection, and nails should be trimmed as needed.

Shichons are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming, but most owners prefer to have their coats trimmed roughly every two months.

Credit: youtube.com, Shichon Puppy growing up ||

You can bathe your Shichon about once per month or on an as-needed basis.

Shichons are easy-going dogs that suit both new and veteran dog owners, making them a great choice for many families.

Their care is simple compared to many other dog breeds, and they don’t require much maintenance, which is a big plus for busy owners.

The Bichon Shih Tzu breed combines the loyalty of the Bichon Frise with the playful charm of the Shih Tzu, making them a loyal and loving companion.

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Diet and Nutrition

A Shichon's diet is a crucial aspect of their overall health and well-being. High-quality food formulated specifically for small dog breeds is the best option for Shichons.

Shichons have big appetites, so it's essential to monitor their food and treat intake. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, a common issue in this breed.

One cup of food a day split over two meals is a good starting point, but this may need to be adjusted based on your Shichon's treat intake and activity levels. Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations on suitable dog food.

Credit: youtube.com, How Much Should a Shih Tzu Puppy Eat?

The best dog foods follow AAFCO guidelines, undergo feeding trials, and are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. These foods provide the necessary nutrients for a Shichon's optimal health.

You can find guidelines for feeding your Shichon on the packaging of your preferred dog food. Alternatively, you can calculate your dog's calorie needs yourself or use an online calorie calculator.

It's a common myth that dry kibble can clean tartar or plaque off a Shichon's teeth. However, this is not true – anything a dog eats, crunchy or soft, can leave remnants on their teeth.

General Information

The shichon is a friendly and outgoing dog that makes a great companion for many households. They are suitable for families with children, singles, seniors, and even apartment living due to their small size.

Shichons are a relatively small breed, weighing between 9 to 15 pounds and standing between 9 to 12 inches tall. They have a medium-length, curly coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

Credit: youtube.com, Zuchon - Shichon - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

One of the best things about shichons is their low-shedding coat, making them a great choice for people with allergies. They also require only moderate exercise, making them a great fit for busy owners.

Here are some key characteristics of the shichon breed:

Shichons are adaptable to different living situations and are generally easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time pet owners.

What Is the History of?

The exact history of the shichon is unknown. However, we do know that breeders mixed Shih Tzus and bichon frises with the goal of developing a dog with the small size of the Shih Tzu but the disposition of the bichon frise. The histories of the parent breeds can provide insight into the shichon's origins.

What is a Shichon?

The Shichon, also known as the Zuchon or Teddy Bear dog, is a cross between an oriental Shih Tzu and a Mediterranean Bichon Frisé.

Credit: youtube.com, Shichon Dog - Top 10 Facts

This breed is relatively new, emerging in popularity in the 1990s, and is still not considered an official breed of dog. However, its popularity is growing quickly, and it's being recognized by organizations such as the American Canine Hybrid Club and the Designer Dogs Kennel Club.

The Shichon typically weighs between 9-25 pounds and stands between 9-12 inches tall. They have a curly or wavy coat that is soft and low shedding, making them a great option for people with allergies.

Shichons are known for their affectionate and playful personalities, making them a great fit for families with children. They're also highly intelligent and easy to train, which is a bonus for first-time pet owners.

Here are some key characteristics of the Shichon breed:

Shichons are a great fit for many households, including families with children, singles, and seniors. They're adaptable to apartment living and don't require a lot of exercise, making them a great option for people with busy lifestyles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much exercise does a Shichon need?

A Shichon requires around 45 minutes of daily mental and physical stimulation to prevent destructive behavior. Providing regular exercise and mental stimulation is essential for their overall health and happiness.

How smart is a Bichon Shih Tzu?

The Bichon Shih Tzu is considered a relatively easy-to-train breed due to its determination to please its family, but it's not among the most intelligent dog breeds. Despite this, its friendly and affectionate nature makes it a wonderful companion.

Derek Hilpert

Lead Writer

Derek Hilpert is a seasoned writer with a passion for sharing knowledge and insights with readers. With a keen interest in animal care, he has established himself as a go-to expert on small breed dogs, covering topics from health and nutrition to training and behavior. Derek's writing style is engaging, informative, and accessible, making complex subjects easy to understand for a wide range of audiences.